A profession that first emerged to assist U.S. veterans who saw live action is still around and making a difference in the lives of people everyday, according to a published report.
The work of an occupational therapist breaks down in six directions, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. Children, wellness, mental health, productive aging, rehabilitation and work. The profession first emerged in 1917 when veterans of the First World War were in need of assistance while institutionalized.
“Occupational therapists introduced purposeful activities and healthy routines that engaged the minds and bodies of veterans and improved their quality of life,” past president Debi Hinerfeld with the Georgia Occupational Therapy Association told the publication, also noting how modernized the profession has become. “Today’s clinicians have so many choices and so many ways to think outside the box in where and how they practice. Creativity is a hallmark of our profession. Because we bring solutions to make things better, our skills can be used in many areas.”
Hinerfield also serves as the representative from Georgia to the American Occupational Therapy Association.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, assistants and aides to occupational therapists are increasingly assuming additional responsibility.